Council 8074 has continued its ongoing support of the Volunteers of America Veteran’s Village in Punta Gorda throughout the past year. Our efforts have included sponsoring monthly haircuts for veterans, donating a new wheelchair to a resident, providing eight sets of sheets, and routinely contributing food for those living at the facility. These small but meaningful acts reflect our continued commitment to serving those who have served our country.

Allergy season in Florida typically lasts year-round, with the spring pollen season beginning in
early January. With record-breaking cold temperatures sweeping across our State, the common
cold is still prevalent, making it difficult at times to distinguish between a possible infection and
allergies.

Symptoms may overlap, since viruses and allergies affect the nasal passages and upper airways.
Viruses may cause fatigue, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, and a runny nose, whereas
allergies may present with itchy, watery eyes, an itchy throat, and nasal congestion. Infections,
however, may also induce fever, chills, body aches and pains, symptoms not seen in allergies.

Seek medical attention when experiencing lingering or worsening symptoms, rather than over-
the-counter remedies that may mask a more serious underlying medical condition.

Written by Elvin M. Mendez, M.D.